lost language
[lɔst ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ]
nounpl: lost languages
língua perdida
1. A language that is no longer actively spoken by any native speakers and exists only in written records or historical documentation
Latin is considered a lost language in terms of native speakers, though it is still studied and used in academic contexts.
O latim é considerado uma língua perdida em termos de falantes nativos, embora ainda seja estudado e usado em contextos acadêmicos.
2. An extinct language with no documented speakers remaining, often known only through archaeological or historical evidence
Etruscan is a lost language that fascinated scholars for centuries.
O etrusco é uma língua perdida que fascinava estudiosos por séculos.
3. A language that has become completely extinct and is no longer used in any community
Without proper documentation, many indigenous lost languages have disappeared forever.
Sem documentação adequada, muitas línguas indígenas perdidas desapareceram para sempre.
Lost languages are of significant academic and cultural interest in both Brazil and the United States, particularly regarding indigenous languages. In Brazil, many Tupi-Guarani languages and other indigenous languages are at risk of becoming lost languages. The study of lost languages helps scholars understand history, cultural heritage, and human linguistic diversity. Language preservation efforts have become increasingly important in both countries.
Related Idioms & Phrases
a lost language to someone - meaning something is completely incomprehensible
speak a lost language - meaning to say something that no one understands
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